Energy efficient variable-function or multi-function apparatus and methods

ABSTRACT

A variable function assembly having a power source, a computer coupled to the power source and including a power switch for allowing operative power to be provided to the computer when in an “on” position and for terminating operative power to the computer when in an “off” position, and a variable function device (e.g. a device having a microprocessor) having a generally fixed circuitry and receiving operative power from the computer when the power switch is in the “off” position. The variable function assembly also has at least one module coupled to the generally fixed circuitry so that the variable function device may provide at least one function. A method of providing a function in a variable-function device. The method comprises providing a variable-function device, transmitting operative power from a function-producing device (e.g. a computer) to the variable-function device when the function-producing device is in an “off” mode, removing a function (e.g. a computer function) from the function-producing device, and providing the removed function in the variable-function device.

TECHNICAL FIELD

Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to computersystems. More particularly, embodiments of the present invention providean energy efficient variable-function (and/or multi-function) apparatusand method.

BACKGROUND

Computers (such as personal computers, notebooks, laptops, palmtops,hand-held processing devices, and/or other types of computing devices)typically show notification items and other graphical items in an areaof their display screen. Such notification items include, for example,electronic mail arrival notifications, instant messaging notifications,low battery-power warnings, and/or the like. These notifications canoften interrupt the images or items being viewed by the computer user.As a result, these notifications can make the viewing experience of theuser less pleasant, particularly if the user is viewing, for example, anentertainment-related image or program on the computer screen or if theuser does not wish to be distracted while using the computer. Theabove-mentioned notification items may also clutter the display screenpresentation of the computer, and/or may otherwise confuse or cause aninconvenience to the computer user, particularly if, for example, thecomputer screen has a small viewing surface area.

In addition, some computer users may place the computer underneath theirdesks or tables in order to increase the available surface area on theirdesks or tables. As a result, these computer users will not be able toview any notifications that may occur on the out-of-sight computerdisplay screen or on a computer display screen that has been turned off(if there is a display on the PC itself).

In addition, functionalities in current computers continue to increase.As a result, the base systems of current computers are being burdened(and/or are becoming more complex and expensive) due to the increasingfunctionalities.

Current computers also integrate extra buttons, additional sensitive orfragile components, infrared (I/R) receivers, and/or other componentsinto the computer bezel. The extra buttons and/or sensitive/fragilecomponents typically result in higher support/service requirements andin increased costs of services for a computer device. Additionally,these additional components in the bezel may increase the manufacturingand design costs for a computer device.

For an I/R receiver integrated in the bezel, the I/R signal from theremote control device must be received in the line-of-sight of the I/Rreceiver. Thus, an I/R receiver integrated in or attached to the bezelwill not be able to receive the I/R signals from a remote control deviceif, for example, the computer bezel is on the floor or is obstructed byan item on the user's desk.

Therefore, the above-described products typically are limited toparticular capabilities and features and suffer from a number ofconstraints related to high cost, limited functionality, complexity inuse, higher service/support requirement, increased manufacturing anddesign issues, inconvenience for the computer user, and/or otherconstraints.

SUMMARY

In accordance with an embodiment of the invention, an apparatus capableof interacting with another device includes: a module configured toprovide a functionality, where the apparatus is configurable to supporta second module for providing an additional functionality in order topermit variable functionality by the apparatus. The functionality mayrelate to an input-function and/or an output-function.

In another embodiment, an apparatus capable of interacting with anotherdevice includes: a module configured to shift a functionality from theother device to the module, where the apparatus is configurable tosupport a second module for providing an additional functionality inorder to expand the functionality of the apparatus.

In another embodiment, a method of manufacturing a variable-functiondevice includes: providing a module configured to provide afunctionality, where the variable-function device is configurable tosupport a second module for providing an additional functionality.

In another embodiment, a method of providing functionality in avariable-function device includes: removing a functionality from acomputer that can communicate with the variable-function device; andproviding the removed functionality in the variable-function device.

Another embodiment of the present invention broadly provides a powersource, a computer coupled to the power source and having a power switchfor allowing operative power to be provided to the computer when in an“on” position and for terminating operative power to the computer whenin an “off” position, and a variable function device (e.g. a devicehaving a microprocessor) having a generally fixed circuitry andreceiving operative power from the computer when the power switch is inthe “off” position. The variable function assembly may also comprise afirst module coupled to the generally fixed circuitry so the variablefunction device may provide a first function, and a second modulecoupled to the generally fixed circuitry so the variable function devicemay provide a second function. A video generating system (e.g. atelevision) may be coupled to the computer. An audio volume controllerand at least one controller may be coupled to the variable functiondevice for controlling the same. A clock (e.g. a real time clock) mayoperatively engage the variable function device. A VCD-controlleddevice, such as an encoder or any other suitable device that is capableof being controlled by the variable control device may be coupled to thevariable control device.

A further embodiment of the present invention provides a method ofproviding a function in a variable-function device comprising providinga variable-function device, transmitting operative power from afunction-producing device (e.g. a computer) to the variable-functiondevice when the function-producing device is in an “off” mode, removinga function from the function-producing device, and providing the removedfunction in the variable-function device. The removed function maycomprise a function selected from the group consisting of aninput-function, an out-put function, an entertainment function, aninformation resource function, a security function, a system displayfunction, a system control function, a telephony function, acommunication function, a notification function, a productivityfunction, a transaction function, a value-added service function, alogical window function for a computer, an education function, at leastone of audio and visual control function, a device control function, andan advanced functionality function. The method of providing a functionadditionally comprises connecting the function-producing device to thevariable function device through a communication link (e.g. wired pathor a wireless path). The variable-function device preferably comprises amodule capable of permitting and providing removal of a function fromthe function-producing device.

In one embodiment the module has an input stage for receiving an inputand an input interface coupled to the input stage for processing thereceived input. The input interface may comprise a matrix switch. Theinput stage may comprise an element configured for selecting a desiredinput and a receiver or transceiver configured to receive the input,which may be generated by a communicative device that is configured tocommunicate with the variable-function device by wireless or wiredcommunication.

In another embodiment the module comprises an output stage configured togenerate output which may be received and processed by anoutput-receiving device, and an output interface coupled to the outputstage and configured to process the output to be generated by the outputstage. The output stage may comprise a display for displaying a removedfunction, a transmitter or transceiver configured to transmit theoutput, and/or an element selected from the group consisting of alight-emitting element, a sound-emitting element, and a motion-actuationelement. The module may further comprise one or more of the following: ahub for connecting to at least one peripheral device, a processor, astorage element, and a clock which permits the module to generate anevent triggering signal.

A further embodiment of the present invention broadly provides a methodfor producing a plurality of functions. The method may compriseproviding a variable-function device having a generally fixed circuitry,coupling a first module to the generally fixed circuitry, removing afirst function from a function-producing device (e.g. a computer) toproduce a removed first function, and generating the removed firstfunction with the assistance of the first module and the generally fixedcircuitry of the variable-function device. The method for producing aplurality of functions may further comprise replacing the first modulewith a second module coupled to the generally fixed circuitry in thevariable function device, and generating a second function with theassistance of the second module and the generally fixed circuitry of thevariable function device. The removed functions may be displayed. If thefunction-producing device comprises a computer the method mayadditionally comprise generating operative power from the computer tothe variable function device, preferably when the computer is in an“off” mode, coupling a monitor to the computer and displaying one ormore of the removed functions on the monitor. A signal may be sent fromthe variable function device to the function-producing device to placethe function-producing device in an “on” position. The method forproducing a plurality of functions also may further additionallycomprise at least one of the following: coupling a clock to the fixedcircuitry, sending a first signal from the clock, which is preferably asignal adjusted-clock, to produce operative power for thefunction-producing device, recording an entertainment function aftersending the first signal from the clock, and adjusting the clock to senda second signal at a desired time to cause termination of the recordingof the entertainment function which may be stored (e.g. in the memory ofthe computer, or the like) prior to recording the same.

A further embodiment of the present invention provides a variablefunction assembly comprising a power source, a computer means coupled tothe power source and having a power switch for allowing operative powerto be provided to the computer means when in an “on” position and forterminating operative power to the computer means when in an “off”position; and a means, coupled to the computer means, for producing aplurality of functions and including a generally fixed circuitry andreceiving operative power from the computer means when the power switchis in the “off” position. The variable function assembly may comprise afirst module coupled to the generally fixed circuitry so the means forproducing a plurality of functions may provide a first function, and asecond module coupled to the generally fixed circuitry so the means forproducing a plurality of functions may provide a second function.

Another embodiment of the present invention provides a method ofproviding a function in a variable-function device comprising removing afirst function from a functionality-providing device operativelycommunicating with a variable-function device and having a power switchfor allowing operative power to be provided to thefunctionality-providing device when in an “on” position and forterminating operative power to the functionality-providing device whenin an “off” position, and providing the removed first function in thevariable-function device. Preferably, the removing of a function fromthe functionality-providing device comprises removing the function whenthe power switch of the functionality-providing device is in the “off”position. As indicated, the variable function device includes agenerally fixed circuitry to which at least one module is coupled toassist in removal of any desired function. Any module may be replacedwith another module to assist in removing and providing a differentfunction in the variable-function device.

A further embodiment of the invention provides an article of manufacturecomprising a machine-readable medium having stored thereon instructionsfor: removing a first function from a functionality-providing deviceoperatively communicating with a variable-function device and having apower switch for allowing operative power to be provided to thefunctionality-providing device when in an “on” position and forterminating operative power to the functionality-providing device whenin an “off” position; and providing the removed first function in thevariable-function device.

Another embodiment of the invention provides a variable functionassembly comprising a network, a module, a functionality-providingdevice coupled to the network, and a variable function device coupled tothe network and having a generally fixed circuitry coupled to the moduleand employing a Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) standard to permit themodule to generate output relating to a state change of thefunctionality-providing device. The module may control thefunctionality-providing device by use of the UPnP standard. Preferably,the variable-function device receives operative power from thefunctionality-providing device when the latter is in an “off” position.

These provisions together with the various ancillary provisions andfeatures which will become apparent to those skilled in the art as thefollowing description proceeds are attained by the devices, assemblies,and methods of embodiments of the present invention, preferredembodiments thereof being shown with reference to the accompanyingdrawings, by way of example only, wherein:

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The present invention is described with reference to the followingfigures, wherein like reference numerals refer to like parts throughoutthe various views unless otherwise specified.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12A is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 12B is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 18 is a block diagram of an apparatus in accordance with anotherembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 19 is a schematic block diagram of another embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 20 is a schematic block diagram of a function-producing device(e.g. a computer) coupled to a power source.

FIG. 21 is a schematic block diagram of a further embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 22 is a schematic block diagram of yet another embodiment of theinvention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the description herein, numerous specific details are provided, suchas examples of components and/or methods, to provide a thoroughunderstanding of embodiments of the invention. One skilled in therelevant art will recognize, however, that an embodiment of theinvention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details,or with other apparatus, systems, methods, components, materials, parts,and/or the like. In other instances, well-known structures, materials,or operations are not shown or described in detail to avoid obscuringaspects of embodiments the invention.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system 100 in accordance with anembodiment of the invention. The system 100 may include a computer 105,and a variable-function device 110 that can communicate with thecomputer 105 via communication path 115. It is understood that forpurposes of explaining functionalities of embodiments of the invention,the elements in the drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale. Asdescribed below, the communication links shown in the drawings, such as,for example, the communication path 115 or the path of input 145, may bea wired connection, wireless connection, bus connection, networkconnection, and/or other types of suitable communication links.

The computer 105 may be, for example, a personal computer, notebook,laptop, palmtop, handheld processing device, and/or another type ofcomputing device. However, as described in another embodiment below, thecomputer 105 may instead be another type of device, such as, forexample, a printer or other peripheral devices.

Typically, the computer 105 includes an input/output (I/O) interface120, a processor 125, and a display screen 130. For purposes ofdescribing embodiments of the invention, other known elements in thecomputer 105 have been omitted in FIG. 1.

In one embodiment of the invention, the variable-function device 110includes an I/O interface 135 and at least one module 140 for performingat least one particular function (or functionality) as described furtherbelow. As also described below in another embodiment, at least anadditional module for performing a particular functionality may be addedto (or integrated with) the variable-function device 100 in order topermit the variable-function device 110 to provide a variable number offunctionalities. The I/O interfaces 120 and 135 are coupled by thecommunication link 115 so that communication (or interaction) can occurbetween the computer 105 and the variable-function device 110. Thecommunication link 115 may be a wired or wireless communication path.For example, the communication link 115 may be a cable, a wire(s), a busconnection such as a universal serial bus (USB) or another type ofbidirectional bus, and/or other suitable wired or wireless links.

USB is a serial bus for connecting peripherals to a computer, and wasdeveloped by Intel Corporation, Santa Clara, Calif. The USB external busstandard supports data transfer rates of, for example, approximately 480Mbps (480 million bits per second), with possibilities of greaterbandwidth in the future. A single USB port can be used to connect up to,for example, about 127 peripheral devices, such as mice, modems, andkeyboards. USB also supports Plug-and-Play (PnP) installation, hotplugging, and multiple data streams.

Of course, the communication link 115 may also be a connection in alocal area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), or another type ofnetwork where the computer 105 and the variable-function device 110 cancommunicate with each other via paths in the network.

The communication link 115 may also be a wireless path where, forexample, infrared (I/R) or radio frequency (RF) communication can occurbetween the computer 105 and the variable-function device 110. Asuitable wireless protocol, such as, for example, the Bluetooth wirelessprotocol, the Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT)technology, or the IEEE 802.11 standards, may be used in the wirelesscommunication process between the computer 105 and the variable-functiondevice 110.

The I/O interfaces 120 and 135 may be, for example, serial ports,parallel ports, universal serial bus (USB) ports or other bus ports,infrared interfaces, radio frequency (RF) interfaces, transceivers,receivers and transmitters, other wired communication interfaces, otherwireless communication interfaces, and/or other suitable communicationinterfaces.

The interface types for the I/O interfaces 120 and 135 will typicallydepend on the type of communication link 115 between the computer 105and the variable-function device 110, and/or on the constraints in thecomputer 105 and the variable-functional device 110.

In one embodiment the variable-function device 110 includes aninput-function module 140 that can provide an input-related function (orinput-related functionality). Examples of input related functions orfunctionalities are described in detail below. As also described below,the variable-function device 110 can also include, for example, anoutput-function module, a combination of at least one input-functionmodule and at least one output-function module, multiple input-functionmodules, multiple output-function modules, a single input-functionmodule and multiple output-function modules, a single output-functionmodules and multiple input-function modules, and/or multipleinput-function and output-function modules.

The input-function module 140 can receive an input 145 from a user (orfrom another device). The input 145 may be processed (e.g., encoded ordecoded) by the I/O interface 135 for transmission via communicationlink 115 as signal 145 a. The signal 145 a is then processed (e.g.,decoded or encoded) by the I/O interface 120 in the computer 105. Basedupon the signal 145 a (which is, in turn, based upon the input 145), theprocessor 125 in the computer 105 can permit or execute a desiredfunction or feature, such as, for example, switching the computer 105into an on-state, having the computer 105 send an e-mail in a network,or showing a content or program 150 on the computer screen 130. Thus, aninput 145 (e.g., the user pressing one button or other user-actions) maybe performed by the user via the variable-function device 110 to permita desired operation or feature to be performed in the computer 105.

However, it is noted that an input 145 may not necessarily betransmitted via the link 115 to permit a desired event occurrence in thecomputer 105. For example, the input 145 may be transmitted to anotherdevice via another communication path. As another example, theinput-function module 140 may be a memory device that can store data asprovided by the input 145. This stored data may, for example, besubsequently read by the computer 105 or by any other suitable devicethat can communicate with the variable-function device 110. As alsodescribed below, in response to an input 145, the variable-functiondevice 110 may provide an output function (or output functionality). Forexample, an input 145 may cause the variable-function device 110 tooutput a picture image, a photograph, an advertisement, a text message,lighting, music or other audio output, a logo such as an “HP” logo fromHEWLETT-PACKARD COMPANY of Palo Alto, Calif., a video, and/or otheroutput functionalities, as described in detail below.

Various known design schemes or methods for integrating a component in adevice may be used to integrate or include an input-function module 140in a variable-function device 110. An example of a suitable designscheme or method may be of the type used for manufacturing the productknown as JORNADA from HEWLETT-PACKARD COMPANY.

As an example as shown in FIG. 2, the input-function module 140 in FIG.1 may be a module 140 a to permit a user to change a mode in thecomputer 105. In this specific case, the module 140 a may include aninput stage 200 that may be, for example, a mode switching button(s) ormode control element(s), a light-detector, a sound-detector (e.g., amicrophone), and/or other suitable elements that can accept an inputcommand. The module 140 a may further include an input interface 205 fortransmitting or processing the input received by input stage 200. Theinput interface 205 may be, for example, a matrix switch (e.g., a 3-by-5matrix switch).

As another example as shown in FIG. 3, an input-function module 140 bmay include an input stage 300 that may be a receiver (or transceiver)and an amplifier stage 305 for amplifying to signals from the receiver.The receiver can receive a wireless input signal(s) 310 from a user viaa device 315 such as, for example, a remote control device, microphone,network node, digital camera, infrared (I/R) blaster, another computeror processing device, and/or other types of devices. For example, thedevice 315 may be a node, in which case, the communication path definedby the input signal 310 is a network path. The input signal 310 isreceived by the receiver and amplified by the amplifier 305 andtransmitted via communication link 115 to permit the computer 105 toperform desired functions. As another example, the device 315 mayinclude a remote control device for sending inputs 310 or other commandsto the variable-function device 110. As noted above, in some instances,an input (such as the input 310) to the variable-function device 110 isnot necessarily transmitted via communication link 115 to the computer105.

The device 315 may include, for example, an output interface 350 and asource 355 to permit the transmission of the signals 310 to thevariable-function device 110. The interface 350 may include, forexample, a transmitter (or transceiver) 360, a signal driver 365, and/orother suitable components to permit the transmission of the signals 130.

The input signal 310 may be, for example, infrared signals, RF signals,and/or other wireless commands or signals. The receiver 300 may also beconfigured to receive other frequencies of the electromagnetic spectrumsuch as, for example, Ultrahigh Frequency (UHF), Very High Frequency(VHF), microwave, and/or other frequencies. The input signals 310 mayalso be wire-transmitted signals if an optional wire or bus link 320 isimplemented between the variable-function device 110 and the device 315.

As another example as shown in FIG. 4, the variable-function device 110may be configured with multiple input modules 140 a and 140 b to permitmultiple types of input-related functionalities. For example, thevariable-function device 110 may be configured with multiple inputmodules to permit the variable-function device 110 to receive bothmanual user inputs 400 and wireless input commands 405 in order topermit the computer 105 to perform desired functions by use of thevariable-function device 110. The number of input modules in thevariable-function device 110 may vary. Thus, in one embodiment, themodules 140 a and 140 b can perform different input functionalitiesor/and similar input functionalities.

In one embodiment, a method of manufacturing the variable-functiondevice 110 includes providing a module configured to provide afunctionality. The variable-function device 110 is configurable tosupport a second module for providing an additional functionality. Atleast a second module can be included in or integrated with thevariable-function device 110 in order expand the functionality of thedevice 110.

As shown in FIG. 5, if, for example, the input-function module 140 cincludes a USB hub or another type of bus hub, then at least one device500 (e.g., devices 500 a and 500 b) can be coupled to the input-functionmodule 140 c. The devices 500 may be, for example, key boards, mice,and/or other peripheral devices, and/or other suitable devices.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram of a variable-function device 110 inaccordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thevariable-function device 110 includes an output-function module 600 thatcan transmit an output 605 to a user (or to another device), where theoutput 605 may represent an output function (or output functionality) asdescribed in detail below. A control signal (or control signal withdata) 605 a from the computer 105 is typically transmitted viacommunication link 115 and is processed by I/O interface 135. The output605 is then generated by the output-function module 600 based upon thesignal 605 a from the computer 110. Examples of different types ofoutputs 605 from the output-function module 600 are described below.

As another example, an output 605 may be generated based on a signalprovided by another device that can communicate with thevariable-function device 110. One example of such another device is adevice 1310 (FIG. 13) which can provide an input 1307 to permit anoutput-function module 600 to perform a particular output functionality.

Reference is again made to FIG. 6. Various known design schemes ormethods for integrating a component in a device may be used to integrateor include an output-function module 600 in a variable-function device110. An example of a suitable design scheme or method may be of the typeused for manufacturing the product known as JORNADA from HEWLETT-PACKARDCOMPANY.

As an example as shown in FIG. 7, the output-function module may be amodule 600 a to provide notifications (and/or warnings/alerts, video,pictures, photographs, images, advertisements, logos, and/or otheroutput) 700 to a user by use of, for example, an output stage 701. Theoutput stage 701 may be, for example, a display screen 705 to display analert message, to show a picture, photograph, image, advertisement,video, logo (e.g., the HP logo), and/or to indicate other output 700.Alternatively or additionally, the output stage 701 may also include,for example, a light emitting element (e.g., LED) 710 that turns on toalert the user. In addition or alternatively, the notification 700 maybe a sound or audio signal that is emitted from a sound emitting element715 which may be, for example, a speaker. The sound emitting element 715may be part of or may form the output stage 701. Alternatively or inaddition, the output stage 701 may include a motion-actuating element719 that triggers motions such as vibrations, movements of movable partsof the variable-function device 110, and/or other types ofmotions/movements as an output 700. Other types of output generatingelements or methods may be used by the output stage 701. An outputinterface 725 may process the output 700 before being shown via theoutput stage 701. In one embodiment, a content, image, or program 720being shown in the computer screen 130 is not interrupted or disturbedby a notification or alert message that current devices show on thescreen 130. An embodiment of the invention will show or otherwiseindicate this notification or alert message as output 700 via outputstage 701.

As another example as shown in FIG. 8, if an e-mail or instant message800 is received by the computer 105, then the processor 125 will forwardthe e-mail or instant message 800 and an e-mail or instant messagearrival notification 801 to the variable-function device 110 viacommunication link 115. An e-mail or instant message arrivalnotification 801 can be output by output stage 805 of output-functionmodule 600 b. As similarly described above, the output stage 805 mayinclude, for example, a screen for displaying the notification 801and/or the e-mail or instant message 800, a light emitting element forindicating a message arrival 801, a speaker or other sound-emittingelement for indicating a message arrival 801, a motion actuation elementfor indicating a message arrival 801, and/or other types of elementscapable of indicating a message arrival 801. In one embodiment, themodule 600 b may include a text-to-speech module 807 for converting thetext of the e-mail message or instant message into speech sounds.

In embodiments where the variable-function device 110 can receive inputcommands from a user, the user may provide an input 810 to the variablenotification device 110 to permit the text and/or attachment(s) of thee-mail message to be displayed (or converted into speech sounds in oneembodiment). In one embodiment, the module 600 b may include an e-mailengine (and/or e-mail client) 815 (and/or an instant messaging engine)to permit processing of the e-mail or instant message. The module 600 bmay also include a processor to permit the processing and display of thetext and/or attachment(s) of the e-mail message.

As another example as shown in FIG. 9, the variable-function device 110may include an output-function module 600 c that includes a displayscreen 900 (or/and other types of displays 905 such as, for example, anLED array). The screen 900 or display 905 may, for example,entertainment-related information 910 such as the name of a compact discor movie that is being processed by the computer 105 and/or the like.Alternatively or additionally, in one embodiment the display 900includes a speaker for indicating the entertainment-related information901 in speech form. Thus, an embodiment of the invention provides avariable number of types of information or content that can be output byvariable-function device 110.

As another example as shown in FIG. 10, an output-function module 600 dmay include a transmitter (or transceiver) 1000 that can transmit awireless output signal(s) 1005 to a device 1010 such as remote controldevice, speaker, network node, a camera monitor, another computer,and/or other types of devices. An input signal 1005 a from the computer105 is received via communication link 115 and processed by the I/Ointerface 135. Based on the input signal 1005 a, the transmitter (ortransceiver) 1000 generates an output 1005 to a device 1010. Of course,the output 1005 may be generated in response to other signals that arereceived by the variable-function device 110, where the other signalsmay be generated by other devices that can communicate with thevariable-function device 110.

The device 1010 may include, for example, an output interface 1015 and adestination stage 1021 for receiving the output 1005 of thevariable-function device 110 and generating an event (or permitting afunction) in response to the output 1005. For example, the destinationstage 1021 may generate via output stage 1023 an output such as alerts,notifications, texts, images, audio or video output, LED or lightemissions, motion outputs, and/or other types of output. The interface1015 may include, for example, a receiver (or transceiver) 1020 forreceiving wireless signals, a signal interface 1025 (for receivingsignals in implementations with the optional wired or bus link 1027),and/or other suitable components to permit the reception of the output1005.

The output signal 1005 may be, for example, infrared signals, RFsignals, or other wireless commands or signals. The transmitter(transceiver) 1000 may also be configured to transmit other frequenciesof the electromagnetic spectrum such as, for example, UltrahighFrequency (UHF), Very High Frequency (VHF), microwave, or otherfrequencies. The output signals 1005 may also be wire-transmittedsignals if an optional wired or bus link 1027 is implemented between thevariable-function device 110 and the device 1010.

In another embodiment as shown in FIG. 11, the variable-function device110 may be configured with multiple output-function modules. Forexample, the variable-function device 110 may be configured withmultiple output-function modules 600 e and 600 f to permit thevariable-function device 110 to transmit, for example, both a displayedoutput 1100 to a user and wireless output commands 1105 to a device(e.g., device 1010 in FIG. 10). The number of output-function modules600 in the variable-function device 110 may vary.

Other types of output-function modules 600 that can be supported in thevariable-function device may include, but not limited to, for example,an I/R blaster, speaker, status display (e.g., in liquid crystal display(LCD) or vacuum florescent), USB hub or other bus hubs, an Ethernet orLAN connection, light-emitting elements, sound-emitting stages, othernotification or alert devices, a motion-enabling stage for causing avibration or other motions to alert a user, a clock, an alarm clock, adisplay for showing pictures, and/or other types of modules that permitparticular functions. The different types of output-function modules 600may be included or integrated in the variable-function device 110 topermit a variable number of output-related functions to be supported bythe variable-function device 110.

FIG. 12A is a block diagram of a variable-function device 110 inaccordance with another embodiment of the invention. Thevariable-function device 110 includes an input-function module 140 topermit input-related functions based on input 1200 and output-relatedfunctions as represented by output 1205. The number of input-functionmodules 140 and output-function modules 600 may vary to permit thevariable-function device 110 to have a variable number of functions.

FIG. 12B is a block diagram of a variable-function device 110 inaccordance with another embodiment of the invention. In this embodiment,the variable-function device 110 may include at least one of thefunction modules 1200, 1205, 1210, 1215, 1220, 1225, 1230, 1235, and1240. There are numerous possible combinations of function modules inFIG. 12B that can be included in or integrated with thevariable-function device 110. TABLES 1 through 12 below list possiblefunctionalities for a particular one of the function modules in FIG.12B.

The module 1200 may provide entertainment and/or information-resourcerelated functions. The module 1200 may provide, for example, at leastone of the functions listed in TABLE 1.

TABLE 1 possible functions for module 1200 Games eCheat ™ (or othersimilar Internet Resources) Gameboy Advance ™ dynamic gamepad (with orwithout force feedback) ePet ™ (or other similar Internet Resource)eLavaLamp ™ logos (e.g., HP ® logo) animated and/or non-animatedscreensavers other functions

The module 1205 may provide home security and/or data security relatedfunctions. The module 1205 may provide, for example, at least one of thefunctions listed in TABLE 2.

TABLE 2 possible functions for module 1205 intruder alert or burglaralarm virus detector firewall penetration police scanner biometrics(e.g., fingerprint recognition) baby monitor X10 ™ control private dataother functions

The module 1210 may provide system display and/or system control relatedfunctions. The system may be part of, for example, a computer 105 (oranother upstream device) that can communicate with the variable-functiondevice 110. The module 1210 may provide, for example, at least one ofthe functions listed in TABLE 3.

TABLE 3 possible functions for module 1210 central processing unit (CPU)utilization or “power meter” turn system on and/or off mimic display ofany connected peripheral (e.g., inkjet printer) connection speed HPe-helper ™ diagnostics and/or help OOBE helper color calibration simpleinput device or user interface for (UI) for children system status(e.g., Standby, Shutting Down) other functions

The module 1215 may provide telephony related functions. The module 1215may provide, for example, at least one of the functions listed in TABLE4.

TABLE 4 possible functions for module 1215 Caller identification (ID)(may have, e.g., audible feature or intelligence/smart feature)answering machine Intercom speaker phone (e.g., conference speakerphoneor Internet speakerphone) phone (e.g., cell phone, portable phone, phonewith handset or headset) other functions

The module 1220 may provide messaging related functions and/orcommunication related functions. The module 1220 may provide, forexample, at least one of the functions listed in TABLE 5.

TABLE 5 possible functions for module 1220 instant messenger and/orbuddy-list (see also FIG. 8) “find-my-friend” application and/or alertelectronic mail (see also FIG. 8) other functions

The module 1225 may provide alert related functions and/or notificationrelated functions. The module 1225 may provide, for example, at leastone of the functions listed in TABLE 6.

TABLE 6 possible functions for module 1225 alarms, text notifications,audio notification, and/or other types of notifications (see also FIG.7) “You've got mail . . .” email notification (see also FIG. 8) backWebmessages and/or ads reminders (e.g., Valentine's Day upcoming) notesand/or scratchpads behavior monitoring (of user) repetitive straininjury (RSI) warning other functions

The module 1230 may provide productivity related functions, such as, forexample, home productivity functions and/or office productivityfunctions. The module 1230 may provide, for example, at least one of thefunctions listed in TABLE 7.

TABLE 7 possible functions for module 1230 calendar and/or agenda to-doList and/or manager office finance and/or home finance (may interfacewith finance software such as, for example, Quicken ™, Quickbooks ™,Timeslips ™, and/or other finance related software) Calculator rolodexand/or contacts Recipes calorie counter exercise program dictionaryand/or thesaurus other functions

The module 1235 may provide transaction-related functions and/orvalue-added services. The module 1235 may provide, for example, at leastone of the functions listed in TABLE 8.

TABLE 8 possible functions for module 1235 coupon offerings travelspecials good deal (shopping) alert Web services Recommendationslanguage translator other functions

The module 1240 may provide functions related to a logical window for apersonal computer or other computer such as, for example, the PAVILION™computer from HEWLETT-PACKARD COMPANY. The module 1240 may provide, forexample, at least one of the functions listed in TABLE 9.

TABLE 9 possible functions for module 1240 Module 1240 may provideanother logical window, where activity is tracked on a primary display(for example, module 1240 can show information, while the primarydisplay is showing Windows; and/or module 1240 may showPC/Computer/Windows information while the primary display is immersed inother information). Module 1240 may also provide a “dual head” displayfeature and/or Picture-in-Picture feature) Module 1240 may provide avirtual second monitor (which may or may not be independent of Windows)other functions

The module 1245 may provide educational related functions. The module1245 may provide, for example, at least one of the functions listed inTABLE 10.

TABLE 10 possible functions for module 1245 distance learning homeworkhelper school (e.g., University) calendar school (e.g., University)class schedule other functions

The module 1250 may provide audio and/or visual (A/V) related functionsand/or functions related to device control. The module 1250 may provide,for example, at least one of the functions listed in TABLE 11.

TABLE 11 possible functions for module 1250 display “Now Playing:”information (e.g., display information about currently playing compactdisc (CD), digital video disc (DVD), AM/FM program, television program,and/or other media) display “Now Recording:” information (e.g.,information about a program, song, and/or other media being recorded)photos and/or digital picture frame audio status and/or control TV guideand/or Electronic Program Guide (EPG) (may have, for example, scrollingfeature) audio-in and/or headphones out standard A/V display informationspeaker calibration Karaoke information Equalizer music playlisttelevision Picture-In-Picture (PIP) feature, picture overlay feature,and/or split screen feature album and/or compact disc covers otherfunctions

The module 1255 may provide advanced functions. The module 1255 mayprovide, for example, at least one of the functions listed in TABLE 12.

TABLE 12 possible functions for module 1255 Web camera MP3 playerdigital camera and/or video recorder card reader Global PositioningSystem (GPS) heart monitor night light voice recorder ZIP replacementsmart card reader, a memory card reader, and/or credit card readerBreathalyzer lie detector motion detector CapShare Richter meter and/orearthquake detector Biofeedback other functions

Other types of function modules that can be supported in an embodimentof the variable-function device 110 may include, but not limited to, forexample, media transport control buttons, a USB hub or other bus hubs, aremovable storage device, an Ethernet or LAN connection, and/or othertypes of elements or features that permit particular functions.

FIG. 13 is a block diagram of a variable-function device 110 inaccordance with another embodiment of the invention. The variablefunction device 110 is configured to transmit signals 1305 to thecomputer 105. In addition or alternatively, the variable-function device110 is configured to transmit the signals 1305 to a receiving device1310 to permit particular functions to be performed by the device 1310(e.g., an upstream device). For example, in response to a manual orwireless input 1315 to the variable-input device 110, thevariable-function device 110 may transmit a wireless signal (e.g., aninfrared command signal) 1305 to the device 1310 so that the device 1310can perform a particular operation and/or an event is triggered in thedevice 1310. The signal 1305 may also be transmitted to the device 1310via an optional wired link 1320. For example, the device 1310 may be atelevision or stereo that turns on in response to a particular infraredcommand signal 1305. As another example, the device 1310 may be a homeautomation server that permits particular home automation functions tobe performed in response to the signal 1305. As noted above, thevariable-function device 110 can also receive input signals 1307 fromthe device 1310 to, for example, trigger an event and/or operation bythe module 1325 in the variable-function device 110.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram of a variable-function device 110 inaccordance with another embodiment of the invention. The variablefunction device 110 may include a module 1400 for alerting or triggeringthe computer 105 to perform particular functions at, for example, ascheduled time. In one embodiment, the module 1400 includes a clock 1405to permit the module 1400 to generate an event triggering signal 1410 toturn on the computer 105 and permit the computer 105 to perform, forexample, a scheduled event. In one particular instance, the computer 105may be switched from an off-state into an on-state in response to theevent triggering signal 1410.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram of a variable-function device in accordancewith another embodiment of the invention. The variable function device110 may include a module 1500 that includes a processor 1505. Thisprocessor 1505, for example, performs processing tasks to enable someinput-related tasks (or functions) 1510 and/or output-related tasks (orfunctions) 1515 and/or functions 1517 related to a device (e.g.,computer 105) that can communicate with the variable-function device110. Alternatively or additionally, the processor 1505 may perform someprocessing functions that can be performed by the processor 125 in thecomputer 105. Thus, the variable-function device 110 permits at leastsome processing functions to be shifted from the computer 105 to thevariable-function device 110.

The processor 1505 may be embodied as, for example, a micro-controller,microprocessor, digital signal processor (DSP), Application SpecificIntegrated Circuit (ASIC), programmable logic device (PLD), fieldprogrammable gate array (FPGA), or other suitable devices.

The module 1500 in the variable-function device may also include amemory (storage element) 1520 that can store various software orfirmware. For example, the software may be an operating system or anexecutable program for an application such as electronic mail or webbrowser. The firmware provides instructions to the processor 1500 forcertain functions so that the processor 1500 can launch certain programsor perform other functions independently of the computer 105.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram of a variable-function device 110 inaccordance with another embodiment of the invention. Assume that thescreen 130 of the computer 105 is displaying content 1600 that the userdoes not want to be interrupted. For example, the content 1600 may be amovie or an output of a program being executed by the computer processor125. A device driver 1605 and filter software 1610 may be programmed todetect for particular events so that when these particular events 1615occur, then a content 1620 related to these events (event-relatedcontent 1620) is instead transmitted by the device driver 1605 viacommunication network 115 and generated by an output stage 1625 of amodule 1630 of the variable-function device 110. Depending on theelements that form the output stage 1625 (e.g., display screen,speakers, light-emitting elements, and/or the like), the content 1620may be made observable to the user as, for example, an image, video,text, audio sound, motion, light emission, and/or other types of output.Therefore, an embodiment of the invention prevents the interruption ofcontent 1600 that is being shown in the computer screen 130.

The event 1615 may be, for example, a notification indicating thearrival of electronic mail or instant message, low-battery power alert,and/or other events that may be detected for by the device driver 1605and filter software 1610. The filter software 1610 performs a comparisonbetween preset data (that represent particular events) and the eventsignal 1615 to determine if content representing the event 1615 shouldbe displayed in the variable-function device 110.

Various known methods may be used to permit the output stage 1625 of themodule 1630 to generate the event-related content 1620. For example, thefilter software 1620 may be code that is in between a driver for thedisplay screen 130 and the application(s) 1650 that sends content to thescreen 130. The filter software 1610 may, for example, allow a user todesignate the application content that should be generated via theoutput stage 1625 of the module 1630 in the variable function device110, instead of generating the application content via the computerscreen 130. Thus, the filter software 1610 may allow a user to customizethe content shown via the output stage 1625 of the module 1630.Alternatively, the filter software 1610 may have default settings thatwill cause a particular application content to be generated via theoutput stage 1625 of the module 1630. Alternatively, the filter software1610 may allow a particular application content to be generated via thecomputer screen 130 and the output stage 1625.

Alternatively or additionally, a plug-in 1655 may be used at theapplication level to allow an application content to be generated viathe output stage 1625 of the module 1630 instead of the computer screen130. The plug-in 1655 may also allow an application content to begenerated via the output stage 1625 and the computer screen 130.

Alternatively, as part of a software 1670 in the module 1630 in thevariable-function device 110, an application program interface (API) canpermit application vendors to program an application content to by-passthe computer screen 130, so that the application content is generatedvia the output stage 1625 of the module 1630. In this particularimplementation, the filtering software 1610 may be omitted whengenerating application content via the output stage 1625 of the module1630.

FIG. 17 is a flow diagram of a method 1700 for generating an event-eventrelated content by use of a variable-function device, in accordance withan embodiment of the invention. The method 1700 may run continuously orat representative intervals. Monitoring (1705) for an event is firstperformed. Upon detection (1710) of an event, a determination is made(1715) if a content related to the event (event-related content) shouldbe generated via an output stage of the variable-function device. If so,the event-related content is generated (1720) via the output stage. Theevent-related content may be output as, for example, an image, anotification, an audio sound, and/or another type of output. Otherwise,in step (1715), the event-related content is generated (1725) via anoutput stage of the main device (e.g., a screen of a computer).

In another embodiment, if a determination is made (1715) that theevent-related content should be generated via the output stage of thevariable-function device, then the event-related content may begenerated via the output stage of the variable-function device and viathe output stage of the main device (e.g., the screen of the computer).

In another embodiment as shown in FIG. 18, the computer 105 andvariable-function device 110 may be connected to a network 1800 and mayuse the Universal Plug and Play (UPnP) standard. UPnP is a standard thatuses Internet and Web protocols to enable devices such as PCs,peripherals, intelligent appliances, and wireless devices to be pluggedinto a network and automatically know about each other. With UPnP, whena user plugs a device into the network, the device will configureitself, acquire an Internet Protocol (IP) address, and use a discoveryprotocol based on the Internet's Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) toannounce its presence on the network to other devices. Thus, an eventoccurrence can be handled by the eventing mechanism of UPnP. The devicedriver 1605 and filtering software 1610 can then determine if theannounced event requires filtering. If so, then the event-relatedcontent is transmitted via network 1800 to the variable-function device110 to permit the generation of an output 1805 (e.g., display imageand/or audio alert) via output stage 1810 of the module 1815. The output1805 may be the event-related content or information indicating a statechange of a device connected to the network 1800.

As noted above, a first phase in the UPnP standard is the addressingphase, where, typically, a device that is added to the network 1800 willtry to locate a Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol (DHCP) server on thenetwork 1800 in order to acquire an IP address. After the addressingphase, a discovery phase occurs where the added device will broadcastits existence to the network 1800 by use of, for example, a multi-castversion of the Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) and attempt to obtaininformation about other devices in the network 1800. In FIG. 18, duringa discovery phase, the variable-function device 100 sends a broadcast1820, while the computer 105 sends a broadcast 1825.

After the discovery phase, a description phase occurs where a device inthe network 1800 can learn about other devices based upon thedescriptions of the devices. A description typically includes a statevector that describes the state of the device. In FIG. 18, thevariable-function device 110 sends a request 1830 to the computer 105for a device description, and, in response to the request, the computersends the device description 1835 to the variable-function device 110.The device description 1835 includes information about the computer 105and state information 1842 with a state vector 1845 describing the stateof the computer 105. The variable-function device 110 can send a signal1840 to subscribe to events that change a state of the computer 105, andthis subscription is indicated in the representation 1850 whichidentifies all subscribing devices. The state information 1842 may bestored in, for example, an internal or external memory of the computer105 or in other suitable locations such as a website.

It is further noted that the device description 1835 of the computer 105may include hooks for controlling the computer 105. The devicedescription 1835 permits the computer 105 to inform thevariable-function device 110 on how the variable-function device 110 cancontrol the computer 105. A standard mechanism to permit control ofdevices is the Simple Object Access Protocol (SOAP). In FIG. 18, thevariable-function device 110 can send SOAP signals to effect changes inthe computer 105. As an example, the device description 1835 may providea Uniform Resource Locator (URL) that provides a description forcontrolling the computer 105.

When the state of the computer 105 changes, the state information 1842changes to state information 1843, with changes occurring in the statevector 1845. The subscribed devices (including variable-function device110) are then notified via notification 1855 from the computer 105 ofthe state change in the computer 105. Content that is associated withthe state change can be generated as an output 1805 by the output stage1810 of the module 1815.

The variable-function device 110 may subscribe to other events (or statechanges) that occur in another device in the network 1800. For example,the variable-function device 110 may subscribe to events in a peripheraldevice 1860 (e.g., a printer). If there is a state change in theperipheral device 1860 (e.g., a printer paper jam), then the peripheraldevice 1860 transmits a notification 1865 to the variable-functiondevice 110. Based on this notification 1865, the output stage 1810 ofthe module 1815 can generate an output 1805 related to the notification1865. Thus, the variable-function device 110 can mimic notificationsgenerated by another device, if the variable-function device 110subscribes to the other device. For example, if a printer paper jamcondition occurs in the peripheral device 1860, then the message“printer paper jam” can be generated by the output stage 1810 of themodule 1815. It is further noted that the module 1815 can control anysuitable device (e.g., peripheral device 1860, computer 105, etc.) byuse of the UPnP standard.

Referring now to FIG. 19 there is seen a function-producing device,generally illustrated as 104 for exemplary purposes. While thefunction-producing device 104 will be illustrated herein as the computer105, it is to be understood that such illustration is not to limitembodiments of the present invention, and that the function-producingdevice 104 may be any device or assembly that is capable of producing afunction for purposes of the present invention.

The computer 105 is preferably coupled to the variable-function device110 via the communication path 115. The computer 105 may include anoutput stage 1625, and the variable-function device 110 for thisembodiment of the invention includes a control board 1910 supporting aUSB hub 1912 which is coupled to a USB header 1914. A communication link1920 (e.g. a USB) couples the USB hub 1912 to a processor 1930 which maybe operatively connected to at least one module 140 (e.g. an LCDmodule). As best shown in FIG. 19, the processor 1930 preferablyincludes or has access to suitable memory 1940 (e.g. flash memory 1940a, SRAM memory 1940 b, etc.), and an input stage 1960 for receiving asuitable input (e.g. input 145) for being controlled. Input stage 1960may comprise a plurality of buttons 1960 a for manual manipulation toreceive appropriate input signals for control purposes.

Audio control device 1980 (e.g. a volume knob) may be coupled toprocessor 1930 for controlling the audio of any device coupled to thevariable control device 110 (e.g. a downstream device) or any device(e.g. an upstream device or system, such as a TV or Internet, etc.)coupled to the computer 105. Also coupled to the processor 1930 may be adevice 1990 for signaling the processor 1930 at regular intervals inorder that the processor 1930 (or any upstream or downstream device) maykeep up with some external event. Device 1990 may be a time-of-day clock(e.g. a real time clock). As further best shown in FIG. 19, the variablecontrol device 110 may communicate with any suitable power source 1994(e.g. AC or a battery) for receiving operative power and with anysuitable device 1998 (e.g. a recorder, an encoder, etc.) which is to becontrolled by the variable control device 110.

Referring now to FIG. 20 there is seen the computer 105 communicatingwith a source of power, generally illustrated as 2000. Operative powerpasses from the source of power 2000 through a power link 2002 to apower relay stage 2006 which is coupled communicatively to the I/Ointerface 120 (e.g. USB) and to a stand-by stored power source 2008 forsupplying operative power to the computer 105 in the event of adisruption of power from the power source 2000. A power on/off switch2012 is in power communication with the power source 2000 via I/Ointerface 120 and power relay stage 2006. Alternatively, the poweron/off switch 2012 is in power communication with the stand-by storagepower 2008 via I/O interface 120 in the event that there is a disruptionof power from the power source 2000. Thus, even when the power on/offswitch 2012 is in the “off” position, operative power is beingcommunicated to the variable control device 110 through the I/Ointerface 120 and the communication link 115. When the power on/offswitch 2012 is switched to the “on” position, operative power is beingpassed to both the computer 105 and the variable control device 110.This embodiment of the invention is an energy efficient embodiment thatallows the variable function device 110 to receive power without thecomputer 105 having to receive power.

Referring now to FIGS. 21 and 22, there is seen the variable controldevice 110 having a fixed circuitry 1950 to which one or more module(s)140 may be coupled. By coupling one module 140 to the fixed circuitry150, the variable function device 110 may produce a desired function. Bycoupling a second module 140 to the fixed circuitry 1950, the variablefunction device 110 may produce an additional desired function. If onemodule 140 is replaced by a second module 140, or with two or moremodules 140, a function produced by the variable function device 110changes. Thus, additional functions may be generated by adding andcoupling to the fixed circuitry 1950 more modules 140, and one or morefunctions produced by the variable function device 110 may be changed byreplacing a first module 140 with a second module 140, or with two ormore modules 140. As best shown in FIG. 22, one (or more) device(s) 2020and/or networks 2024 may be operatively engaged to the computer 105.Device 2020, by way of example only, may be an audio and visualproducing device, such as a television; and networks 2024 may be theInternet. The computer may store and/or download into memory or storageany desired function or event from the device 2020 (e.g. anentertainment function) or network 2024 prior to recording the samethrough the assistance of the variable function device 110. It is to beunderstood that the particular function of the variable function device110 may be assigned at any suitable time, such at program run time.

Broadly, one or more of the modules (e.g. module 140) for embodiments ofthe present invention may be any collection of one or more of circuitry,software, firmware, and hardware (e.g. display mechanisms, components,or any other suitable elements, etc.), all designed to perform a desiredoperation. More specifically, any of the modules for embodiments of thepresent invention may be any suitable module which is capable offunctioning for the purpose of embodiments of the present invention. Themodule may include a board or board set that provides mechanicalmounting and protection for associated electric components, thermaltransfer of heat away from the components to an external heat sink, andelectrical and fiber optic connections. The module may include one ormore nodes that share a physical interface to a scalable coherentinterface (SCI) which functionally behaves as a bus and may furtherinclude a collection of point-to-point unidirectional boards withbackplane-mating connectors, it may only employ one of the boards forany logical connection to a node. The remaining boards may provideadditional power or I/O for their associated boards, but otherwisemerely pass the input link signals through to the output link to providecontinuity in the event the module is coupled to a ring—connectedbackplane. The module may also be an electronic circuit assembly thatconnects to one or more slots on a backplane assembly, and may beremovable from the replaceable in the backplane assembly via connectors.The module may further also be a FASTBUS, or an addressable unit orinterconnected set of units attached to the MTM-Bus and fully supportingthe MTM-Bus protocols. The boundary of an MTM-Bus module may correspondto the physical partitioning of any suitable system and may comprise anMTM-Bus interface and module application logic.

One or more embodiments of the present invention may permit manyfunctions to be consolidated into, for example, one small, compact,tethered device or/and portable device. In one embodiment, thevariable-function device 110 is compact in nature and requires minimalsurface area and/or space. Thus, an embodiment of the variable-functiondevice 110 may be conveniently placed on a user's desk, table,furniture, workspace, home counter, and/or other areas. Thus, in anembodiment, the variable-function device 110 may be optimally located ina position within each user's environment. An embodiment of theinvention may permit functions to be removed from a computer (e.g., aPC) or other processing device in order to simplify the base systemand/or components of the computer or other processing device.Additionally, an embodiment of the invention may permit the computer andvariable-function device 110 to have, for example, separate developmentschedules to reduce risks, and/or separate definitions to enable changesand/or multiple offering of functions in the variable-function device110. Additionally, since an embodiment of the invention permitsfunctions to be removed from a computer or other processing device, themodified-function computer or other processing device can now be easierand cheaper to support in the field as compared to current computers orother current processing devices. Additionally, an embodiment of theinvention may provide more functions to the user without burdening orincreasing complexity to the main system in the computer or otherprocessing device. As a result, the computer (or other processingdevice) may become more reliable, and the cost of service may be reducedfor the computer (or other processing device).

Additionally, one or more embodiments of the present invention maypermit a user to be notified or receive feedback on events withoutrequiring the computer display (or other processing device display) tobe visible to the user. An embodiment of the invention may also offer tothe user more feedback on the state of the user's computer environment.An embodiment of the invention may also reduce the clutter in the screenof the computer (or other processing device) by offering an alternativedisplay location for selected functions.

One or more embodiments of the present invention may be advantageouslyutilized with any appliance (or device) that is adapted to communicatewith a communication link and/or perform other processing functions, andthus is not limited to the variable-function devices as described in theforegoing embodiments.

It is to be understood that the processor for any embodiments of thepresent invention may be any suitable integrated circuit that may orpreferably contain the logic elements for manipulating data and formaking decisions. The processor may include an interpreter, a computerand run-time system, or other mechanisms together with an associatedhost computing machine and operating systems. The processor may alsoinclude or be provided with any suitable software, and may comprise amicroprocessor, or a micro-computer (e.g. IBM PS/2), or a mini-computer(e.g. Digital VAX).

The various engines discussed herein may be, for example, software,commands, data files, programs, code, modules, instructions, or thelike, and may also include suitable mechanisms.

Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment”, “anembodiment”, or “a specific embodiment” means that a particular feature,structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodimentis included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus,the appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment”, “in an embodiment”,or “in a specific embodiment” in various places throughout thisspecification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment.Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics maybe combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.

Other variations and modifications of the above-described embodimentsand methods are possible in light of the foregoing teaching. Further, atleast some of the components of an embodiment of the invention may beimplemented by using a programmed general purpose digital computer, byusing application specific integrated circuits, programmable logicdevices, or field programmable gate arrays, or by using a network ofinterconnected components and circuits. Connections may be wired,wireless, by modem, and the like.

It will also be appreciated that one or more of the elements depicted inthe drawings/figures can also be implemented in a more separated orintegrated manner, or even removed or rendered as inoperable in certaincases, as is useful in accordance with a particular application.

It is also within the scope of the present invention to implement aprogram or code that can be stored in a machine-readable medium topermit a computer to perform any of the methods described above.

Additionally, the signal arrows in the drawings/Figures are consideredas exemplary and are not limiting, unless otherwise specifically noted.Furthermore, the term “or” as used in this disclosure is generallyintended to mean “and/or” unless otherwise indicated. Combinations ofcomponents or steps will also be considered as being noted, whereterminology is foreseen as rendering the ability to separate or combineis unclear.

As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow,“a”, “an”, and “the” includes plural references unless the contextclearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein andthroughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and“on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

The above description of illustrated embodiments of the invention,including what is described in the Abstract, is not intended to beexhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise forms disclosed.While specific embodiments of, and examples for, the invention aredescribed herein for illustrative purposes, various equivalentmodifications are possible within the scope of the invention, as thoseskilled in the relevant art will recognize.

These modifications can be made to the invention in light of the abovedetailed description. The terms used in the following claims should notbe construed to limit the invention to the specific embodimentsdisclosed in the specification and the claims. Rather, the scope of theinvention is to be determined entirely by the following claims, whichare to be construed in accordance with established doctrines of claiminterpretation.

1. A method of providing a function in a variable-function devicecomprising: providing a variable-function device; transmitting operativepower from a function-producing device to the variable-function devicewhen the function-producing device is in an “off” mode; removing afunction from the function-producing device so that the function cannotbe performed by the function-producing device; and providing the removedfunction in the variable-function device, wherein the removed functionincludes triggering the function-producing device to be turned on and toperform a scheduled event.
 2. The method of claim 1 wherein the removedfunction comprises a function selected from the group consisting of aninput-function, an out-put function, an entertainment function, aninformation resource function, a security function, a system displayfunction, a system control function, a telephony function, acommunication function, a notification function, a productivityfunction, a transaction function, a value-added service function, alogical window function for a computer, an education function, at leastone of audio and visual control function, a device control function, andan advanced functionality function.
 3. The method of claim 1additionally comprising connecting the function-producing device to thevariable function device through a communication link.
 4. The method ofclaim 3 wherein the communication link comprises a wired path.
 5. Themethod of claim 4 wherein the communication link comprises a wirelesspath.
 6. The method of claim 1 wherein the variable-function devicecomprises a module capable of permitting and providing removal of afunction from the function-producing device.
 7. The method of claim 6wherein the function-producing device comprises a computer.
 8. Themethod of claim 7 wherein the module included a processor.
 9. The methodof claim 7 wherein the module includes a storage element.
 10. The methodof claim 6 wherein the module is capable of generating an output. 11.The method of claim 10 wherein the output from the module is receivedand processed by a fixed circuitry.
 12. The method of claim 6 whereinthe module comprises a hub.
 13. The method of claim 12 wherein the hubis configured for connecting to at least one computer device.
 14. Themethod of claim 1 additionally comprising displaying the removedfunction for viewing.
 15. The method of claim 1, wherein the removedfunction is a notification function that displays an alert message. 16.The method of claim 1, further comprising determining if the function isto be performed by the variable-function device.
 17. The method of claim1, wherein the variable-function device outputs a message selected fromthe group consisting of a picture image, a photograph, an advertisement,and a logo.
 18. A method for producing a plurality of functionscomprising: providing a variable-function device having a generallyfixed circuitry; coupling a first module to the generally fixedcircuitry; removing a first function from a function-producing device toproduce a removed first function, wherein the first function cannot beperformed by the function-producing device; generating the removed firstfunction with the assistance of the first module and the generally fixedcircuitry of the variable-function device; replacing the first modulewith a second module coupled to the generally fixed circuitry in thevariable function device; and generating a second function with theassistance of the second module and the generally fixed circuitry of thevariable function device, wherein the second function includestriggering the function-producing device to be turned on and to performa scheduled event.
 19. The method of claim 18 wherein thefunction-producing device comprises a computer.
 20. The method of claim18 wherein the function-producing device comprises a computer, and themodule comprises a hub that is coupled to the computer.
 21. The methodof claim 18 wherein the function-producing device comprises a computer,and the method additionally comprises placing the computer in an “off”mode; and generating operative power from the computer to the variablefunction device.